Aspiration system for thrombectomy procedures

ABSTRACT

An aspiration system including a housing containing an aspiration pump, a chamber, a collection bag in fluid communication with the chamber, and a tubing assembly including a first tube portion connected to the chamber. The tubing assembly has a connector to split the first tube portion into a second and third tube portion, the second tube portion in fluid communication with a first catheter to aspirate particles through the first catheter and the third tube portion in fluid communication with a second catheter to aspirate particles through the second catheter.

This application claims priority from provisional patent applicationSer. No. 61/916,034, filed Dec. 13, 2013, the entire contents of whichare incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND Technical Field

This application relates to an aspiration pump and more particularly toan aspiration pump for use in thrombectomy or other vascular procedures.

Background of Related Art

There have been various attempts to break up clots and other obstructingmaterial in grafts or native vessels. One approach is through injectionof thrombolytic agents such as urokinase or streptokinase. These agents,however, are expensive, require lengthy hospital procedures and createrisks of drug toxicity and bleeding complications as the clots arebroken.

Other approaches to breaking up clots involve mechanical thrombectomydevices. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,766,191 discloses a cage or basketcomposed of six memory wires that expand to press against the innerlumen to conform to the size and shape of the lumen.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,090,118, incorporated herein by reference in itsentirety, discloses a wire rotated to create a standing wave to break-upor macerate thrombus. The single wire is less traumatic than theaforedescribed basket device since it minimizes contact with the graftwall while still effectively mechanically removing thrombotic material.

U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,037,316 and 7,819,887, both incorporated herein byreference in their entirety, disclose another example of rotationalthrombectomy wires for breaking up clots in grafts. The thrombectomywire has a sinuous shape at its distal end and is contained within asheath in a substantially straight non-deployed position. When thesheath is retracted, the distal portion of the wire is exposed to enablethe wire to return to its non-linear sinuous configuration. Actuation ofthe motor causes rotational movement of the wire, creating a wavepattern, to macerate thrombus.

In neurovascular thrombectomy procedures, the thrombectomy wire needs tonavigate tortuous vessels. That is, the wire is inserted through femoralartery and then must navigate small and tortuous vessels as it isadvanced to the smaller cerebral arteries of the brain. Within thebrain, the carotid and vertebrobasilar arteries meet to form the circleof Willis. From this circle, other arteries, e.g., the anterior cerebralartery, the middle cerebral artery and the posterior cerebral artery,arise and travel to various parts of the brain. Clots formed in thesecerebral arteries can cause stroke and in certain instances death of thepatient.

Due to the size and curves of the vessels en route to the cerebralarteries from the femoral artery, as well as the size and structure ofcerebral arteries themselves, access is difficult. If the thrombectomydevice is too large then navigation through the small vessels, which canbe as small as 1 mm, would be difficult. Also, if the device is toostiff, then it can damage the vessel walls during insertion. On theother hand, if the device is too flexible, it will lack sufficientrigidity to be advanced around the vessel curves and can be caught inthe vessel. The devices disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 8,764,779 and8,663,259, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein byreference, provide a thrombectomy device for breaking cerebral clotsthat strikes the optimal balance of flexibility and stiffness, thuseffectively having the insertability of a tracking guidewire whileenabling high speed rotation to effectively macerate clots withoutdamaging vessels.

After particles have been macerated, especially in neurovascularthrombectomy procedures, it would be advantageous to aspirate themacerated particles to ensure the particles do not travel downstream,which if sufficiently large could result in stroke or even death.

SUMMARY

The present invention advantageously provides in one aspect anaspiration system comprising a housing containing an aspiration pump anda chamber, a collection bag in fluid communication with the chamber, anda tubing assembly including a first tube portion connected to thechamber. The tubing assembly has a connector to split the first tubeportion into a second and third tube portion, the second tube portion isin fluid communication with a first catheter to aspirate particlesthrough the first catheter and the third tube portion is in fluidcommunication with a second catheter to aspirate particles through thesecond catheter.

In some embodiments, the connector comprises a T-fitting connected to aninput end of the first tube portion and communicating with an output endof the second tube portion and an output end of the third tube portion.

In some embodiments, the chamber has an input port to receive particlesand an output port to transport aspirated particles from the chamberinto the collection bag.

In some embodiments, the collection bag is shipped in a substantiallyflattened position underneath a base of the housing.

The aspiration pump can include a switch electrically connected to thepump to turn the pump on and off. An indicator can be included toprovide an indication to the user that the collection bag is full.

In some embodiments, when backpressure in the collection bag exceeds apredetermined amount, the controller will transmit a signal to the pumpto shut off the pump.

In some embodiments, a non-conductive shipping tab is removable tocomplete a circuit to enable actuation of the pump.

In some embodiments, a substantial portion of the first tube portion ispositioned underneath a base of the housing during shipping. Duringshipping, the collection bag can be positioned underneath a portion ofthe first tube portion.

In some embodiments, a first valve is connected with the second tubeportion and a second valve is connected with the third tube portion, thefirst and second valves selectively actuable to enable fluid flowthrough the respective tube.

In another aspect of the present invention, an aspiration system isprovided comprising a housing containing an aspiration pump and achamber, the housing having a top portion and a base. In a shippingconfiguration, a tubing assembly has a first tube wrapped in a woundconfiguration, at least a substantial portion of the first tubepositioned underneath the base. A collection bag is in fluidcommunication with the housing and in the shipping configuration atleast a portion of the collection bag is positioned underneath thesubstantial portion of the first tube.

In some embodiments, the tubing assembly includes a second tube and athird tube, each in fluid communication with the first tube. In someembodiments, the first tube has a split connector to separately connectwith the second and third tubes. The aspiration pump can further includea first valve connected with the second tube and a second valveconnected with the third tube, the first and second valves selectivelyactuable to enable fluid flow through the respective tube. The systemcan further include a power pack positioned within the housing.

In some embodiments, the chamber has an input port to receive aspiratedparticles and an output port to transport aspirated particles from thechamber into the collection bag.

The present invention also provides in another aspect a disposablesterile aspiration kit comprising a pump, a power pack for powering thepump, a tubing assembly for transporting aspirated particles from thebody, and a collection bag for receiving aspirated particles, whereinthe pump aspirates the particles through the tubing and pumps theaspirated particles into the collection bag. In preferred embodiments,pump and the power pack are positioned in a housing. In someembodiments, the tubing is positioned underneath the housing. In someembodiments, the housing includes a chamber, the pump activated toaspirate the particles into the chamber in the housing and to pump theaspirated particles from the chamber through the tubing assembly intothe collection bag.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Preferred embodiment(s) of the present disclosure are described hereinwith reference to the drawings wherein:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the aspiration system of the presentinvention;

FIG. 2A is a perspective view of the aspiration system of FIG. 1 shownattached to a thrombectomy apparatus;

FIG. 2B is an exploded view of the proximal portion of the thrombectomyapparatus of FIG. 2;

FIG. 2C is a perspective view illustrating attachment of the RHV to theintroducer catheter;

FIG. 2D illustrates insertion of the introducer catheter of thethrombectomy apparatus through a guide catheter and into the circle ofWillis and insertion and attachment of the RHV to the introducercatheter;

FIG. 3 is an exploded view of the aspiration system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the tubings and a diagrammatic view ofthe pump wiring and tubing connections;

FIG. 5 is a top view of the aspiration system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 is a side view of the aspiration system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 7 is a top view showing the tubing of the aspiration system of FIG.1;

FIG. 8 is a top view of the aspiration system, with the top half of thepump housing removed to illustrate internal components;

FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the aspiration system taken alongline 9-9 of FIG. 5;

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view illustrating removal of the shippingtab; and

FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the aspiration system of FIG. 1from the opposite side of FIG. 9.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Referring now in detail to the drawings where like reference numeralsidentify similar or like components throughout the several views, FIG. 1illustrates the pump housing 11 and collection bag assembly 13 of theaspiration system 10 of the present invention, which are separated forclarity. The system 10 is designed for use with a thrombectomyapparatus, such as the thrombectomy apparatus 200 described in detailbelow. The system 10 can also be utilized for aspiration in conjunctionwith other thrombectomy devices as well as in other medical proceduresrequiring aspiration.

Turning initially to FIGS. 1 and 3, pump housing 11 includes a tophousing or cover 12 and a pump base 14. Contained within the pumphousing 11 is an electrical subassembly 15 which includes an on/offpower switch 16 protruding through opening 19 in top cover 12. The pumpswitch 16 can include a light to indicate when the switch is on tooperate the pump to aspirate particles from the surgical site. Othertypes of indicators are also contemplated, including audible indicators.The components of the electrical subassembly are discussed in moredetail below. Aspiration system 10 also includes a tubing assembly 17having bag tubing 80 and pump tubing 90, both described in detail below.Collection bag assembly 13 of system 10 includes a bag 21, shown in theflattened (unfilled) shipping position in FIGS. 1 and 3, and a connector24 for bag tubing 80. The collection bag 21 is preferably shippedpositioned underneath the base 14 and tubing assembly 17 to provide acompact unit to facilitate shipping and portability. Collection bagassembly 18 further includes a one way stopcock 20 to drain thecollection bag 21 if desired by opening the valve. A second stopcock 22can also be provided for collection bag drainage. An LED indicator 27,visible through top cover 12, provides an indicator when the collectionbag 21 is full.

Top cover 12, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 5, has substantially linear sides12 a and 12 b and curved ends 12 c and 12 d. Top cover 12 also has anopening 19 for the on/off switch 16. A non-conductive pull tab 30extends though the opening 19 and breaks the circuit during shipping toprevent inadvertent actuation of the pump 10. This is best seen bycomparing FIGS. 9 and 10, wherein the distal end 30 a of pull tab 30 isinterposed between conductive plates 29 a, 29 b, positioned betweenrespective posts 29 c, 29 d, and the proximal end 30 b extends outsidethe pump housing 11 through opening 19 so it is accessible to the user.When desired to operate the pump 10, the pull tab 30 is moved in thedirection of the arrow of FIG. 10, thereby allowing plates 29 a, 29 b tocome into electrical contact to complete the circuit described below.

Base 14 has a top surface 14 a and a bottom surface 14 b (see e.g.,FIGS. 3 and 6). Bottom surface 14 b is designed to rest on the table.Screws 40 extend through cylindrical posts 46, not all of which arelabeled for clarity, to attach the top cover 12. Pads (not shown) can beprovided on the screw heads to provide a smoother surface. Base 14 alsoincludes a cutout 14 c.

The electrical subassembly 15, best shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, includes acontroller 53 and a motor pump 54. An output port 62 and an input port60 extends from housing (chamber) 55. A power pack 52 containing one ormore batteries e.g., 12 volt batteries, is mounted on base 14. Blood andparticles are suctioned via input port 60 into the chamber by the pump54 and outputted by the pump 54 through output port 62 into thecollection bag 21.

Turning now to the tubing assembly 17, and with reference to FIGS. 3 and4, tubing assembly 17 includes bag tubing 80, pump tubing 90 andconnector tube 70. Bag tubing 80 has a tube inlet end 82 which connectsto T-connector 71 of connector tube 70 at connection port 74. Tubeoutlet end 84 of bag tubing 80 connects to the connector 24 (FIG. 3) ofthe collection bag assembly 13 to transport particles from bag tubing 80into the bag 21.

T-connector 71 is connected to output end 73 of connector tube 70. Asnoted above, port 74 of T-connector 71 receives inlet end 82 of bagtubing 80. The other port (the 90 degree port) of T-connector 71receives connector 77 which is connected to the controller 53. In thismanner, when the bag 21 is full and backpressure is detected by thecontroller 53, the controller 53 sends a signal to the pump 54 to turnoff the pump 54 so that suction is terminated and the bag 21 is notoverfilled which could result in the bursting of the bag 21. Theopposing end 72 of connector tube 70 connects to the output port 62 ofthe chamber 55 (housing). In this manner, the blood or other particlesare transported from chamber 55 through end 72 into connector tube 70,out through connection port 74, into inlet end 82, through bag tubing80, out outlet end 84, into connector 24 and into collection bag 21.

Pump tubing 90 includes a long tube 105, a connector tube 96 and shorttube 94. T-connector 92 splits the fluid communication of long tube 105into connector tube 94 and short tube 96 so that one tube connects tothe guide catheter and the other tube connects to the thrombectomycatheter as described below. Tube 105 has one end 105 a which connectsto the input port 60 of the chamber 55 for application of suction. Thetube 105 extends in a series of circular adjacent wraps. The opposingend 105 b connects to tubes 94, 96 via T-connector. More specifically,T-connector 92 joins the input end 105 b of long tube 105 to output end94 a of short tube 94 via its 90 degree port. The opposing input end 94b of short tube 94 connects to luer 97 b of switch valve 97, with theoutput end 104 a of catheter tubing 104 connected to the input end ofthe switch valve 97. Tube 94 extends in a somewhat partial S-shape asshown. Thus, short tube 94 fluidly joins catheter tubing 104 to longtube 105 as particles and blood from the thrombectomy catheter areaspirated through the lumen in the catheter into tubing 104, out end 104a into the lumen of valve 97, out valve 97 and into input end 94 b ofshort tube 94, out output end 94 a of short tube 94, into input end 105b of long tube 105, and out end 105 a of long tube 105 into the chamber(housing) 55 as end 105 a is connected to inlet port 60 of housing 55.In an alternate embodiment, the switch valve 97 can be connecteddirectly to the side port of the RHV, as shown for example in FIG. 2A.

The T-connector 92 also connects long tube 105 to connector tube 96 atoutput end 96 a at its 180 degree port. The opposing end 96 b ofconnector tube 96 extends into luer 99 b of the switch valve 101. Shorttube 96 extends in a circular fashion around an arc of about 270degrees. Tubing 98 at the input end of the valve 101 is connected to theguide catheter. Thus, particles and blood are aspirated through thelumen of the guide catheter into catheter tubing 98, through the lumenin the switch valve 101, out the opposing end of switch valve 101, intoinput end 96 b of short tube 96, out output end 96 a of short tube 96,into input end 105 b of long tube 105, through long tube 105 and out end105 a of long tube 105, into input port 60 and into the chamber(housing) 55. In an alternate embodiment, the switch valve 101 can beconnected directly to the side port of the RHV, as shown for example inFIG. 2A.

The switch valve 97 can be selectively actuated to enable suctionthrough the thrombectomy catheter described below and the switch valve101 can be selectively actuated to enable suction through the guidecatheter, also described below. In one embodiment, the switch valves 97,101 each have a slider mechanism 97 a 101 a, respectively, (see FIG. 7)which when slid in one direction clamps down on the respective tube(which forms the lumen in the switch valve for fluid/particle flow) toclose off flow and when slid in the other direction unclamps the tube toenable suction. In FIG. 7, the slider mechanisms 97 a, 101 a are shownin the open position. When moved in the direction of the arrow, they aremoved to a closed position to close off flow. Other types of valves andmechanisms to open and close off flow are also contemplated. Luer locks97 b, 99 b, provide the connection of tubes 94, 96 to the respectivevalve 97, 101.

The diagram of FIG. 4 illustrates the electrical connections of thecomponents. Switch 16 is connected to the positive terminal of the powerpack 52 via wire 64 a. Wire 64A splits at junction 64 b so that wire 64c connects the power pack 52 to the LED indicator 27. The LED indicator27 is connected to controller 54 via wire 64 j. Switch 16 is alsoconnected to controller 53 via wire 64 d which provides an input signalto the controller 53 when the switch 16 is turned on. Switch 16 isfurther wired to the pump 54 via wire 64 e. The negative terminal of thepower pack 52 is connected via wire 64 f to the conductive plate 29 a.The opposing conductive plate 29 b is connected to the controller viawire 64 g. The controller 53 and pump 54 are connected via wire 64 h. Asnoted above, non-conductive tab 30 is seated between plates 29 a, 29 bto break the circuit.

When the collection bag 18 becomes full, it is sensed by the controller53 and the pump 54 is automatically turned off. More specifically, thecontroller 53 measures back pressure in the collection bag 21. As thebag 21 becomes fuller, it is more difficult to fill because it will notbe expanded. When the back pressure rises to a predetermined amount, thecontroller 53 will transmit a signal to the pump 54 to shut off the pump54. In this way, over expansion and potential bursting of the collectionbag 21 is prevented.

The pump 54 in one embodiment includes a piston actuated by a motor.When the piston moves in a first direction, e.g., outwardly with respectto the chamber 55, blood and particles are suctioned through pump tubing90, and when the piston moves in the reverse direction, e.g., into thechamber 55, the blood and particles are pumped from the chamber 55 intothe bag tubing 80 and into the collection bag 21.

The aspiration system of the present invention can be provided in aportable kit. In this manner, the entire assembly (pump housing, tubingand collection bag) can be provided in a sterile package. Additionally,the entire assembly (pump housing, tubing and collection bag) in someembodiments can be disposable.

The pump of the present invention will can be used with a variety ofdevices to aspirate blood and/or particles. By way of example, it willbe now be described in conjunction with the thrombectomy apparatusdescribed in U.S. Pat. No. 8,764,779. Further details of the device ofthe U.S. Pat. No. 8,764,779 patent can be understood from the patent,the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Thethrombectomy apparatus is shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B and is designatedgenerally by reference numeral 200. The apparatus includes a motorhousing 212, a rotational thrombectomy wire 230, a rotating hemostaticvalve (RHV) 240, an introducer sheath 260 and a telescoping tube ortubular connector 280. The RHV 240 is connectable to an introducercatheter 300 discussed below in conjunction with the method of use (seee.g. FIG. 2C). The introducer sheath 260 is insertable into the RHV 240to facilitate insertion of the thrombectomy wire 230 through the RHV 240and introducer catheter 300.

The thrombectomy apparatus or assembly 200 provides a rotationalthrombectomy wire as a separate unit from a catheter. That is, thethrombectomy wire 230 is provided as a separate unit insertable throughthe RHV 240. The RHV 240 has a distal end 252 connected to a proximalend of the introducer catheter 300 (see FIG. 2C) to access the surgicalsite. The introducer sheath 260 aids insertion of the thrombectomy wireinto the RHV 240 and through the introducer catheter 300, with the wallsof the introducer sheath 260 maintaining the non-linear distal end ofthe wire 230 in a substantially straightened (substantially linear)configuration as it enters the RHV 240.

Additionally, the thrombectomy wire 230 of the present invention can beslid within the introducer sheath 260 and introducer catheter 300 priorto connection to the motor, if desired. This can aid introduction andmanipulation of the wire 30 since it is less cumbersome and of lighterweight than if the motor housing was attached during manipulation of thewire. However, it is also contemplated that the wire 230 could beattached to the motor housing 212 prior to insertion through theintroducer sheath 260, RHV 240 and the introducer catheter 300 and thusthe wire 230 would be slidable within the introducer sheath 260 (andintroducer catheter 300) with the motor housing 212 attached. Thus, themotor housing 212 can be attached to the wire at a desired time prior toor during the procedure.

The motor housing 212, which also forms a handle portion, contains amotor and motor drive shaft extending therefrom. A gear reducer (notshown) could optionally be provided to reduce by way of example therotational speed of the motor 252 from 15,000 rpm to 1500 rpm, 750 rpm,150 rpm, etc. One or more batteries, such as a 3 Volt battery, ispositioned in the housing 212 for powering the motor 214. The motordrive shaft 215 connects at end 215 a to a proximal end of thethrombectomy wire 230 by various couplings, such as for example a snapfit wherein cap 231 of at the proximal end of wire 30 is frictionallyfit over the motor drive shaft 15. Various other types of connectionsare also contemplated such as magnetic couplers. A printed circuit boardcan also be provided within the housing 230 and is designated byreference numeral 218.

Switch 219 extends though recess 221 in housing half 213 a and in acorresponding recess in housing half 213 b. A potentiometer (not shown)can optionally be wired to the motor to enable dialing the motor speedup or down to adjust the rotational speed of the thrombectomy wire 230to adjust for various procedures and/or clot locations and sizes. In apreferred embodiment, the potentiometer is used as a two terminalvariable resistor, i.e. a rheostat, by not connecting the thirdterminal. In this manner, in the initial position, the motor speed is atthe desired minimum and rotation of a knob (or in alternate embodimentssliding of a knob) progressively increases the motor speed. Thus, theon/off switch 219 extending from the housing 212 is electricallyconnected to the motor 215 to turn on the motor 215 to activate theapparatus, i.e. rotate the wire 230.

Turning to the other components illustrated in FIGS. 2-4, rotatinghemostatic valve (RHV) or housing 240 as noted above is connectable toan introducer catheter 300 (see FIG. 2C). A conventional introducercatheter can be utilized or alternatively a specially designed catheterfor use with the apparatus of the present invention can be utilized. Asis standard, the RHV 240 is rotatable with respect to the catheter 300to alter the orientation of the side arm 256.

Side arm 256 extends from the tubular portion 246 of RHV 240 and has aport 257 for introduction of fluids and/or application of vacuum asdescribed below. Luer lock is provided at the distal end 255 of RHV 240to connect to the introducer catheter 300 as internal threads ofrotation knob 252 threadingly engage external proximal threads of theintroducer catheter 300. Tube extension 248 fits within the lumen of theintroducer catheter 300 when attached.

Tubular portion 246 of RHV 240 includes a lumen extending therethroughto slidably receive the tubular portion 262 of the introducer sheath260. Proximal cap 258 at proximal end 254 has internal threads tothreadingly attach to external proximal threads 247 of RHV 240 forattachment of the cap 258 to the RHV 240. Thus, as cap 258 is tightenedon RHV 240 by rotation, it compresses rings against the tubular portion262 of introducer sheath 260 extending therethrough to connect theintroducer sheath 260 to the RHV 240. A proximal seal can also beprovided.

Side arm 256 of RHV 240 has a lumen in fluid communication with thelumen of tubular portion 46. Fluids such as imaging dye can be injectedthrough the arm 256, flowing through the lumens, i.e., through the spacebetween the inner wall of the lumen of the tubular portion 246 and theouter wall of the introducer sheath 260, and then through the spacebetween the thrombectomy wire 230 and the inner wall of the introducercatheter 300, exiting a distal opening 303 (FIG. 2D) in the introducercatheter 300 to flow into the vessel. This imaging dye can be used toprovide an indication that fluid flow has resumed in the vessel.

The side arm 256 is also used for vacuum to suction particles detachedfrom the vessel by the rotational wire 230. The aspirated particles flowinto the distal opening 303 (FIG. 2D) of the introducer catheter 300 andthrough the space between the wire 230 and the inner wall of theintroducer catheter 300, continuing through the lumen in the tubularportion 246 lumen 255 and then exiting through the outlet 257 intocatheter tubing 104 of the system 10, through long tube 105, into thechamber 55 and outputted via tubes 70 and 80 into the collection bag 18.

It should also be appreciated that the guide catheter 150 discussed inconjunction with the method of use below can also have a side arm 152for injection of fluid (see FIG. 2D). The side arm 152 is also used foraspiration by system 10. Alternatively, a RHV 170 with a side arm 172can be used with a guide catheter 150 (which does not have a side arm)as shown in FIG. 2A. Actuation of the pump aspirates particles throughthe space between the introducer catheter 300 and guide catheter 150,into tubing 98 and long tube 105 and into the chamber 55 where it isoutputted via tubes 70 and 80 into the collection bag 18.

In the alternate embodiment, the RHV does not have a side arm. In thisembodiment, a guide catheter with a side arm can be used for injectionand suction. However, the guide catheter with a side arm can also beused in conjunction with an RHV with a side arm so that suction canoccur through the RHV and neuro catheter and/or through the guidecatheter. This is shown in FIG. 2D.

The tubular portion 262 of introducer sheath 260, as noted above,extends through the lumen of RHV 240 and terminates either within RHV240 or at a proximal portion of the lumen of the introducer catheter300. The tubular portion 262 preferably has a stiffness greater than thestiffness of the thrombectomy wire 230 to maintain the wire 230 in astraightened position during passage of wire 230 into the RHV 240 forsubsequent passage through the lumen of the introducer catheter 300 tothe surgical site.

Proximal end 265 of introducer sheath 260 is attachable to connectortube 280. Preferably, the enlarged proximal end 265 has a threadedflange to threadingly engage the internal threads on the tubularconnector 280. A valve can be provided within the distal end 282 of theconnector tube 280 in addition or instead of a valve in a proximal end265 of the introducer sheath 260 to seal escape of fluid to improve thevacuum through the side arm 256.

Note the tube 280 and introducer sheath 260 can alternatively beprovided as one unit, attached together and positioned over thethrombectomy wire 230 as an attached unit. However, in alternativeembodiments, the wire 230 is inserted through the introducer sheath 260and manipulated through the introducer catheter 300 to the surgicalsite. Once positioned, the connector tube 280 is then threadinglyattached at the distal end 282 to the introducer sheath 260 as notedabove and at a proximal end 284 to the motor housing 212. In thisversion, the connector tube 280 can be positioned over the wire 230prior to insertion of the wire 230 through introducer sheath 260 orafter insertion through the sheath 260. The wire 230 can be packagedwith the sheath 260 and the tube 280 positioned thereover, or packagedapart from the sheath 260 and tube 280.

Proximal end 284 of connector tube 280 is configured for attachment tothe motor housing 212. A ring is seated within an internal groove ofconnector tube 280 to provide a snap fit. As noted above, proximal endof the wire 230 is attached to the drive shaft 215 of the motor 214. Inone embodiment, end cap 231 of wire 230 is snap fit within opening 215 ain motor shaft 215. Other ways to attach the wire 230 and motor shaft215 are also contemplated such as a bayonet mount for example or amagnetic coupler wherein a magnet is attached to wire 230 and mates witha magnet attached to the motor housing.

As can be appreciated, by having a detachable motor housing 212,different handles with different motor speeds and/or different batteriescan be utilized by attachment to the wire 230. This can even be achievedduring the same surgical procedure.

In some embodiments, the housing can be detached, sterilized and reusedafter recharging of the battery or replacing the battery.

In some embodiments, as an alternative to direct connection to the motorshaft, the proximal end of wire 230, after insertion to the surgicalsite or prior to insertion, can be attached at a proximal end to acoupler tube which is connected to a gear reducer. The connection can bea friction fit, a magnetic coupling or a twist connect, e.g., a bayonetconnection, by way of example.

The wire 230 has a distal coiled tip angled with respect to thelongitudinal axis. FIG. 2A shows the wire forming a sinuous shape. In analternative embodiment, the wire forms a J-tip which creates a standingwave upon rotation. In the J-tip configuration, due to the angle, whenthe wire is rotated by the motor at sufficient speed at least onevibrational node is formed. Details of this creation of a standing waveare described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,090,118, the entire contents of whichare incorporated herein by reference.

The wire 230 forms a substantially sinuous shape, resembling a sinecurve. More specifically, wire 230 has a substantially linear portionextending through most of its length, from a proximal region, through anintermediate region, to a distal region. At the distal region 236, wire230 has a sinuous shape in that as shown it has a first arcuate region233 facing a first direction (upwardly as viewed in the orientation ofFIG. 2A) and a second arcuate region 235, spaced longitudinally from thefirst arcuate region 233, facing a second opposite direction (downwardlyas viewed in the orientation of FIG. 2A). These arcuate regions 233, 235form “peaks” to contact vascular structure as the wire 230 rotates. Thisangled (non-linear) distal portion of wire 230 can include a coiledportion with a covering material to block the interstices of the coil.Note in a preferred embodiment, the amplitude of the proximal wave (atregion 233) is smaller than the amplitude of the distal wave (at region235), facilitating movement in and out of the catheter.

When the wire 230 is fully retracted within the introducer catheter 300,the curved regions of the wire 230 are compressed so the distal regionis contained in a substantially straight or substantially linearnon-deployed configuration. When the introducer catheter 300 (attachedto RHV 240) is retracted by proximal axial movement, or the wire 230 isadvanced with respect to the introducer catheter 300, or the wire 230and catheter 300 are both moved in the respective distal and proximaldirections, the distal region of the wire 230 is exposed to enable thewire 230 to return to its non-linear substantially sinuous configurationfor rotation about its longitudinal axis within the lumen of the vessel.

Thus, as can be appreciated, the wire 230 is advanced within theintroducer catheter 300 which is attached at its proximal end to thedistal end of the RHV 240. When at the desired site, the wire 230 andintroducer catheter 300 are relatively moved to expose the wire 230 toassume its non-linear shape for motorized rotational movement to breakup thrombotic material on the vessel wall. If a J-tip wire is utilized,the wire can be rotated within the introducer catheter 300 to re-orientthe wire.

The flexible tubular portion 262 of the introducer sheath 300 canoptionally contain one or more braided wires embedded in the wall toincrease the stiffness. Such braided wires would preferably extend thelength of the sheath 300.

In an embodiment of the coiled tip being composed of shape memorymaterial, the memorized configuration is sinuous or s-shape as in FIG.2A. In the state within the introducer catheter 300, the wire is in asubstantially linear configuration. This state is used for deliveringthe wire to the surgical site. When the wire is exposed to warmer bodytemperature, the tip transforms to its austenitic state, assuming thes-shaped memorized configuration. Alternatively, the coiled tip of thewire can be compressed within the wall of the introducer catheter andwhen released, assumes its shape memorized non-linear shape. The coiledtip can alternatively be a radiopaque coil/polymer pre-shaped to an “S”.

Details of the wire 230 are described in U.S. Pat. No. 8,764,779,previously incorporated by reference in its entirety herein.

The use of the thrombectomy apparatus 10 will now be described. The use,by way of example is shown and described with respect to the embodimentof FIG. 2A with the sinuous tip wire, it being understood that otherwires can be utilized in a similar manner.

An access sheath (not shown) is inserted into the vessel and then aguidewire e.g. 0.035 or 0.038 inches in diameter, and a guide catheter150′ are inserted through the sheath and advanced through thevasculature. Note in the embodiment of FIG. 2D, the guide catheter 150′has a side arm 152 for aspiration. However, alternatively a guidecatheter without a side arm can be utilized in conjunction with a RHVwith a side arm for aspiration as in the embodiment of FIG. 2A.

The guidewire is removed and a smaller diameter guidewire, e.g. 0.014inch diameter, and the introducer catheter 300 are inserted through theguide catheter 150′ and access sheath with the guidewire G in thefemoral artery F and located via imaging. The introducer catheter 300 isadvanced to the desired site through the vascular system into thecerebral arteries A, for example through the Circle of Willis (see FIG.2D). Once at the site, the guidewire is withdrawn. Note the introducercatheter 300 is preferably inserted with the RHV 240 attached. That is,the tubular portion 246 of the RHV 240 is inserted through theintroducer catheter 300 and attached thereto by rotation of cap 251.

Note in an alternate embodiment, instead of the RHV 240 attached priorto introduction of the introducer catheter 300 through the guidecatheter, it can be attached after introduction of catheter 300 throughthe guide catheter.

The introducer sheath 260 is inserted through the RHV 240, and attachedto the RHV 240 by rotation of cap 258 as shown in FIG. 2C. Thethrombectomy wire 230 is inserted through the lumen of the introducersheath 260, through the lumen of the RHV 240 and into the lumen of theintroducer catheter 300. The introducer catheter 300 extends from theguide catheter 150′ as shown in FIG. 2D, but the wire 230 remains insidethe introducer catheter 300. The distal end of the wire 230 is thenexposed from the introducer catheter 300 at the target surgical site byrelative movement of the wire and introducer sheath 300. Note the wire230 can be attached to the motor drive shaft 215 at this point or can beattached before exposed or at any other time in the procedure such asprior to insertion of the wire 230 through the introducer sheath 260.Attachment is achieved by connection of the connector tube 280 to theintroducer sheath 260 and attachment of the proximal end of theconnector 280 to the motor housing 212. The wire 230 extends through theconnector tube and extends through connector 280 to the motor driveshaft 215. As noted above, alternatively, the connector tube 280 can beconnected to the introducer sheath 260 prior to attachment to the motorhousing 212, or alternatively connected after the wire 230 is at thesurgical site and exposed from the introducer sheath.

With the wire 230 exposed from the introducer catheter 300, switch 219on housing 122 is actuated to turn on the motor 214 thereby causing wire230 to rotate about its longitudinal axis to break up/macerate thrombus.

To aspirate macerated particles, the pump 54 is turned on by switch 16.This aspirates the macerated particles through side arm 256 of RHV 240as the particles travel in the space between wire 230 and introducercatheter 300 and RHV 240. Larger particles can be aspirated through thespace between the guide catheter 150 (or 150′) and introducer catheter300. Aspirated particles travel through the respective RHV sides ports,into the respective tubing and into chamber 55. The pump 54 furtherpumps the aspirated particles from chamber 55 through the bag tubing 80and into collection bag 21 as described above. Note introducer catheter300 can optionally have a side port(s) and/or the guide catheter 150 canoptionally have a side port(s) such as side port 152 for aspirating thesmall macerated particles in addition to or as an alternative to a sidearm of an RHV.

The delivery (access) sheath or delivery catheter can optionally includea balloon (not shown) to block blood flow and allow aspiration in theblocked space.

While the above description contains many specifics, those specificsshould not be construed as limitations on the scope of the disclosure,but merely as exemplifications of preferred embodiments thereof. Thoseskilled in the art will envision many other possible variations that arewithin the scope and spirit of the disclosure as defined by the claimsappended hereto.

1-16. (canceled)
 17. A disposable sterile aspiration kit comprising apump, a power pack for powering the pump, a tubing assembly fortransporting aspirated particles from the body, and a collection bag forreceiving aspirated particles, wherein the pump aspirates the particlesthrough the tubing and pumps the aspirated particles into the collectionbag.
 18. The kit of claim 17 wherein the pump and the power pack arepositioned in a housing.
 19. The kit of claim 18, wherein the tubing ispositioned underneath the housing.
 20. The kit of claim 18, wherein thehousing includes a chamber, the pump activated to aspirate the particlesinto the chamber in the housing and to pump the aspirated particles fromthe chamber through the tubing assembly into the collection bag.
 21. Amedical aspiration system comprising a housing positionable on a table,the housing containing a chamber, an electrical subassembly and a powerpack, the electrical subassembly including a controller and anaspiration pump, the chamber having an inlet port to receive via tubingparticles aspirated from a patient's body and an outlet port to transfervia tubing the particles to a collection bag, the collection bagpositioned outside the housing.
 22. The aspiration system of claim 21,wherein the controller sends a signal to shut off the aspiration pump ifbackpressure in the collection bag reaches a predetermined amount. 23.The aspiration system of claim 21, further comprising a removableshipping tab which breaks an electrical circuit of the components duringshipping and is removable for use to complete the circuit for actuationof the aspiration pump.
 24. The aspiration system of claim 21, whereinthe collection bag and the housing including the chamber, electricalsubassembly, and power pack are disposable.
 25. The aspiration system ofclaim 21, wherein the battery pack contains one or more batteries.
 26. Amethod of aspirating particles macerated during a thrombectomyprocedure, the method comprising positioning a portable aspiration pumpon a table, aspirating particles through a first tubing in communicationwith a first lumen into a chamber of the aspiration pump, aspiratingparticles through a second tubing in communication with a second lumeninto the chamber of the aspiration pump and pumping the aspiratedparticles into a collection bag positioned outside a housing of theaspiration pump.
 27. The method of claim 26, further comprising the stepof discarding the aspiration pump after use.
 28. The method of claim 26,wherein particles are aspirated from a cerebral artery in a neurothrombectomy procedure.